When Will Black Panther Return In The MCU? Here's Every Possibility

Summary

• Black Panther, portrayed by Letitia Wright as Shuri in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), could have a significant presence in the upcoming Marvel projects
• Shuri is expected to be a part of the Avengers team in Avengers 5 and 6, where she will likely continue to refine her role as the new Black Panther.
• There are three Wakanda shows in development.

Black Panther quickly became one of the most beloved characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and could reappear at several points in the MCU’s future. The character of Black Panther first appeared in Captain America: Civil War and has been an MCU staple since, earning two solo movies and playing essential roles in several Infinity Saga narratives. Following the character’s turbulent history within the franchise, the MCU’s new Black Panther could emerge in several MCU projects.

T’Challa, aka Black Panther, was played in the MCU timeline by Chadwick Boseman until his death in 2020. Incorporating his death into Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, the MCU nominated T’Challa’s younger sister, Shuri (Letitia Wright), to take over the mantle of Black Panther – much like in the comics. While the MCU’s Black Panther 3 is unconfirmed, this circumstance provides a litany of interesting opportunities for Black Panther to return to the MCU, taking into account both T’Challa and Shuri’s comic book history as the famed superhero.

11 Black Panther Will Likely Appear In Avengers 5

Avengers 5 Will Likely Be Another Epic Team-Up

Shuri is expected to return as Black Panther in the highly anticipated Avengers 5. Avengers 5 is set to be a monumental film, featuring an impressive lineup of 60 MCU characters, promising an epic convergence of storylines and heroes comparable to Avengers: Infinity War. This will allow Shuri to demonstrate her leadership skills and join the Avengers team, much like T’Challa did throughout Infinity War.

Shuri’s Black Panther, known for her intelligence and innovative contributions to Wakanda’s advancement, will undoubtedly play a crucial role in the unfolding events. Shuri also still needs to be integrated into the broader Avengers line-up. Avengers 5 will be the ideal place to do so, bringing together the wider MCU cast and studying how they interact with Shuri’s Black Panther.

10 Black Panther Will Presumably Feature In Avengers: Secret Wars

Avengers: Secret Wars Will Feature Most Avengers

Black Panther is also expected to make a significant appearance in the MCU’s Avengers: Secret Wars. The highly anticipated film promises to bring together numerous MCU characters in an epic crossover event. Secret Wars is known in the comics for its large-scale battles and multiverse-spanning storyline, where many Marvel characters are pitted against each other in a thrilling showdown.

Avengers: Secret Wars will provide a grand stage for Black Panther to demonstrate her strategic acumen and combat prowess. Secret Wars is intended as the Multiverse Saga’s grand finale and will likely continue refine the Avengers team established in Avengers 5. The movie offers the chance for Shuri to interact with more superheroes in the intricate tapestry of alliances and confrontations that Secret Wars promises to deliver.

9 Black Panther Is Allies With Ironheart

Ironheart Was Introduced In Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

Black Panther is primed to feature in the MCU’s miniseries Ironheart, especially considering the character’s introduction in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. In Wakanda Forever, Riri Williams, also known as Ironheart, formed a crucial alliance with Shuri, setting the stage for future collaborations. Moreover, Ironheart’s advanced suit was left in Wakanda at the end of Wakanda Forever, hinting at her inevitable return to the technologically advanced nation.

This return to Wakanda could provide an opportunity for deeper interaction between Riri and Shuri, further solidifying their bond. As Ironheart navigates her journey as a young superhero, the guidance and support of Black Panther could prove invaluable. Shuri, with her extensive knowledge of technology and leadership experience, would be an ideal mentor for Riri in the Ironheart miniseries.

8 Black Panther And The Avengers Will Appear In Marvel Zombies

Marvel Zombies Will Turn Many MCU Heroes Into The Undead

Black Panther is likely to appear in the Marvel Zombies series. This series, based on the classic Marvel Comics line and inspired by an episode of What If…?, will delve into a dark, alternate reality where a zombie apocalypse poses a dire threat to the Marvel universe. Given the significant roles played by Black Panther characters Okoye and T’Challa in the What If…? episode, it’s almost certain that Shuri’s Black Panther will appear.

Shuri’s involvement will be crucial in the fight against the zombie threat in Marvel Zombies. Her scientific expertise and combat skills make her a formidable opponent for the undead and a key ally for the surviving heroes. Audiences can anticipate her taking on a leadership role, coordinating efforts to fend off the zombie horde, and potentially discovering innovative ways to combat the infection.

7 Black Panther Will Probably Be In What If…? Season 3

Black Panther Appeared In What If…? Season 1 & 2

Black Panther will certainly star in some form in What If…? season 3, which explores alternate realities within the MCU. Given Black Panther’s status as one of the main Avengers, Shuri will surely appear in various storylines. Shuri has actually already appeared in the series, though not since she became the new Black Panther.

The series has also included other characters who have held the Black Panther title, such as T’Challa, T’Chaka, and Killmonger. This precedent suggests that some version of Black Panther will appear in What If…? season 3, continuing the show’s fun exploration of multiverse variants. Indeed, as the multiverse continues to be explored, numerous Black Panthers could appear in a single narrative.

6 Black Panther Has A Possible Connection With Daredevil: Born Again

Black Panther Once Stood In For Daredevil

Black Panther could potentially appear in the MCU’s Daredevil: Born Again series, reflecting a storyline from the comics. In Marvel Comics, T’Challa temporarily takes over Daredevil’s vigilante duties in Hell’s Kitchen. The MCU could adapt this narrative with Shuri’s Black Panther instead. In this narrative, T’Challa’s involvement in Hell’s Kitchen added a unique dynamic to the gritty, street-level world of Daredevil.

As the MCU begins re-exploring its street-level heroes, a connection with a top-tier Avenger could help establish characters. Shuri’s presence in Hell’s Kitchen would honor T’Challa’s history even further while updating the MCU’s roster of heroes. After Chadwick Boseman’s death, incorporating T’Challa’s comic book activities into Shuri’s narrative can help provide the best overall Black Panther, drawing from both characters’ rich comic book heritage.

5 Black Panther Is Frequently Allies With The X-Men

Black Panther Is Married To The X-Men’s Storm

The MCU’s X-Men project is another potential avenue for Black Panther to return to the MCU, drawing from T’Challa’s rich history of collaborations with the X-Men in Marvel Comics. Notably, T’Challa’s marriage to Storm, a powerful mutant and member of the X-Men, made her the Queen of Wakanda and intertwined their stories deeply. Adapting this narrative for Shuri, the new Black Panther, could effectively merge the legacies of both Black Panthers and enrich the MCU.

Shuri’s involvement with the X-Men could be introduced through a storyline where she allies with the mutant team to tackle a shared threat. The fact that Shuri has already faced a mutant with Namor in Wakanda Forever makes this all the more probable. Furthermore, a new romantic or diplomatic subplot involving Shuri and a prominent mutant, reminiscent of T’Challa and Storm’s relationship, could help diversify the MCU’s line-up.

4 Black Panther’s Friendship With Ironheart Could Mean She Appears In Armor Wars

Armor Wars Could Require Ironheart’s Wakanda Suit

Black Panther could also feature in the MCU’s Armor Wars, where War Machine is tasked with safeguarding Stark Industries’ technology and preventing it from falling into the wrong hands. Given the central role of Iron Man’s legacy, it’s highly likely that Ironheart will also be involved. As Shuri is established as Ironheart’s ally, she may call on her friend for help.

More pertinently, Rhodey, as War Machine, might seek to retrieve Ironheart’s suit from Wakanda as part of a mission to gather Iron Man imitations. This could lead to a natural crossover with Black Panther, creating either a confrontation or a collaboration between the two heroes. Though all three heroes are expected to assemble first as part of the MCU’s Avengers 5 line-up.

3 Shuri Often Partnered With The Guardians Of The Galaxy

The Guardians Of The Galaxy Are Expected To Return In Some Form

In Marvel Comics, Shuri has collaborated with the Guardians of the Galaxy, opening up the possibility of her appearing in future Guardians of the Galaxy projects. In Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, a new team was established, although only Star-Lord’s return to the MCU has been confirmed. The potential involvement of other team members remains uncertain, but should they return, a storyline could develop where Shuri works alongside these cosmic adventurers.

The dynamic collaboration between Shuri and the Guardians of the Galaxy, most notably Groot and Rocket Raccoon, was incredibly effective in Marvel Comics. The MCU would therefore be wise to recreate this in live-action, perhaps even as a way of cementing the new Guardians team. While it’s unlikely that Shuri would leave Wakanda unprotected, a GOTG cameo is certainly possible.

2 Eyes Of Wakanda Could Include A Black Panther Flash Forward

Eyes Of Wakanda Will Depict Wakanda’s History

The MCU’s Eyes of Wakanda is an animated series exploring various points in Wakanda’s rich history and its acquisition of vibranium. While primarily set before Black Panther, it offers ample opportunities to include Shuri through bookend or flashforward sequences. Given Shuri’s integral role in the Black Panther legacy and her position as the current Black Panther, her appearance can provide a modern perspective on Wakanda’s storied past.

Flashforwards could depict Shuri reflecting on historical events, drawing parallels between the past and present. Bookend sequences featuring Shuri could serve as a narrative bridge, linking historical tales to the contemporary MCU timeline – much like Uatu the Watcher in What If…? This would not only ground the series in the present but also highlight Shuri’s reverence for her ancestors and the importance of the Wakandan heritage.

1 Black Panther Might Feature In Other Black Panther Shows

The MCU Is Making Two More Series About Wakanda

The MCU is expanding its exploration of Wakanda with two Wakanda series in addition to Eyes of Wakanda, although specific plot details remain under wraps. One series has been hinted at as an origin story for Okoye, the fierce and loyal leader of the Dora Milaje. This series is set to delve into her backstory and offer insights into her character development within Wakanda’s rich cultural and martial traditions.

Given Wakanda’s central role in these series, it’s highly likely that Shuri’s Black Panther will make appearances. Whether through character-driven narratives or broader explorations of Wakandan history, these projects will enhance the MCU’s Wakanda and Black Panther lore. They promise to honor the legacy of Boseman’s Black Panther, while also cementing Shuri’s place as the MCU’s Black Panther.